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Economic development

Montreal's 40NetZero Industrial Campus Aims to Be North America's Largest Net-Zero Industrial Complex

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Canada's largest industrial campus is on track to become North America's largest net-zero industrial campus, with 7 million square feet of space and a focus on sustainability. The campus will be powered by clean energy and feature solar panels, rainwater management systems, and energy-efficient insulation. The project is part of Canada's efforts to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, with an interim target of reducing emissions by 20% from 2005 levels by 2025.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 40NetZero industrial campus in Montreal aims to be North America's largest net-zero industrial campus, with 7 million square feet of space.
  • The campus is powered by clean energy, including solar panels and hydroelectric power, and features energy-efficient insulation and rainwater management systems.
  • The project is 12-18% more expensive than conventional methods, but offers 36% lower energy and operating costs compared to comparable buildings.
  • The campus has secured its first major tenant, pharmaceutical distributor McKesson, which is leasing 400,000 square feet.
  • The project's owners, including Robert Soldera and Loracon Construction Inc., anticipate a 30-year lifespan for the buildings, with a focus on durability and sustainability.
  • Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) backlash against net-zero initiatives is a challenge for the project, but Climate Change can provide a competitive advantage for net-zero projects like 40NetZero.
  • The campus's owners and designers are overcoming obstacles such as regulatory backlash, bureaucracy, and red tape to bring the project to life.

Statistics:

  • 7 million square feet of space for the 40NetZero industrial campus.
  • 12-18% higher costs for building the campus compared to conventional methods.
  • 36% lower energy and operating costs for the campus compared to comparable buildings.
  • 400,000 square feet leased by pharmaceutical distributor McKesson.
  • 120 football fields in size, equivalent to 1,000,000 square meters.
  • 30-year lifespan anticipated for the buildings.

Sources:

  • The Globe and Mail, "Sustainable industrial property pushes ahead amid political headwinds"
  • Interview with Robert Soldera, owner of Loracon Construction Inc. and 40NetZero's owners.
  • Interview with Fernando Lozano, chief executive and managing principal of GKC Architecture and Design.
  • Interview with Marie-Anne Legault, associate and project director at GKC Architecture and Design.
  • Interview with Tonya Lagrasta, Colliers Canada's global head of sustainability.

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